Copiah-Lincoln Community College is making strides in budgeting and renovations after Jane Hulon’s first year as president.

The Co-Lin Board of Trustees met Thursday at the Thames Center on the Wesson campus to wrap up the 2018-2019 school year.

“We’ve had a busy month in the life of the college,” Hulon said.

Several topics were discussed at the board meeting, including the progress on projects such as renovations for the football field and score board at Stone Stadium.

So far, $400,000 has been spent on the renovations for the football field. At the April meeting, the lowest and best bid for the scoreboard was approved by the board of trustees.

”We consistently look for ways to make Co-Lin more attractive to student-athletes, coaches and fans so we can achieve competitive excellence. The upgrades to Stone Stadium will do just that.”

As the year comes to a close, the budget was reviewed. The findings were positive.

“The college is doing well,” Vice President of Business Affairs Richard Baker said. “We’re in a good financial position.”

Money fluctuated throughout the school year, but the college still has a portion of its budget left over.

“We still have 16 percent of the budget. It’s a number we should be proud of,” Baker said.

According to Baker, 11 percent of the budget is left for all three campuses, with Wesson retaining 16 percent of its overall budget.

Continuing with the positive remarks on the budget, Brent Ballard of Fortenberry and Ballard of Brandon presented its audit of the college.

Ballard said it a good audit, and that nothing questionable had been found.

To switch gears, a report was given on the search for someone to fill the vice president position on the Natchez campus.

After more than 12 years of leading the Natchez campus, Teresa Busby has stepped down, which leaves the position open.

According to Dwayne Middleton, vice president of the Simpson County Center 40 applications have already been received.

“This is a very important position for the college and the Natchez community,” Middleton said. “We should have someone by July 15.”

Story by Gracie Byrne